1-Day in Xiamen: Exploring Gulangyu Island

Gulangyu Island--Zhongshan Road--Eighth Seafood Market--Huandao Road

In the morning, you will meet your guide early at the appointed time in your hotel lobby and drive you to port where you'll embark on a 20-minute ferry to Gulangyu Island.

Gulangyu, (Kulangsu in the local dialect), is a beautiful island off the coast of Xiamen. In 2017, Gulangyu was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the nomination "Historic International Settlement." Spanning an area of less than 2 square kilometers, the island boasts over 900 historical buildings of various architectural styles, earning it the nickname "World Architecture Exhibition." Gulangyu is also referred to as the "island of music". It is famous for its outstanding musicians and musical instruments. It has more than 200 pianos - the highest per capita ownership of pianos in the entire country. Furthermore, Gulangyu is lauded as a “Garden on the Sea,” The ban on motorized vehicles contributes to the serene atmosphere of the island, making it a popular destination for those looking to unwind. It boasts beautiful scenery including sandy beaches, lush gardens, and stunning views of the surrounding waters and city skyline.

When visiting Gulangyu Island, you have two distinct routes to choose from.

1. Cultural and Historical Architecture Route: visit the architecture representing various styles and listen to the historical stories behind old buildings. 
2. Leisure and Entertainment Route: enjoy a leisurely time on the island, without being bound by fixed routes. Customize your experience based on your preferences and pace.

Notes:

1.  Visit Gulangyu, you can either walk or take a shuttle bus (RMB 50 per person)
2. Exploring the outdoor beauty and wandering around Gulangyu is free; however, please note that certain buildings and attractions may have an entrance fee.

After visiting Gulangyu, you will take a ferry back to Xiamen. Then, you can enjoy the feeling of old Xiamen by strolling on Zhongshan Pedestrian Street. Zhongshan Road is the only walking street in China that leads directly to the sea and is also one of the earliest developed commercial areas in Xiamen. Today, the 1.1-kilometer-long Zhongshan Road remains the busiest commercial street in Xiamen. A major highlight of Zhongshan Road is the array of historic Qilou buildings (or arcade-houses) lining the street, constructed by returning overseas Chinese in the 1920s. These Qilou buildings featuring a South-East Asian style, are adorned with delicate Western-style carvings, Chinese engravings are seamlessly integrated with Greek column heads, showcasing a harmonious blend of Eastern and Western architectural elements. While shopping and savoring delicious food, you can also appreciate the unique artistic and historical value of these buildings, experiencing the profound cultural heritage of Xiamen.

Alternatively, you can turn into the small alleys near Zhongshan Road to explore the local life of Xiamen. These alleyways are filled with the ancient charm of the Southern Fujian, offering a plethora of colorful Minnan snacks and authentic old-brand restaurants. I recommend trying the Shacha Noodles and Oyster Omelette. Seafood is also a major highlight of Xiamen's cuisine. You can visit the nearby Eighth Market, which is the most famous seafood market in the locality. There, you can explore a wide variety of fresh seafood and perhaps even try some local seafood dishes. (Tips: If you decide to dine at the Eighth Seafood Market, be sure to negotiate the price before you purchase any seafood to avoid any misunderstandings.)

Lastly, indulge in a tranquil drive along Huandao Road (Islet-Ring Road). Huandao Road is a scenic coastal road in Xiamen, renowned for its beautiful views of the sea, beaches, and lush greenery. Along this road, you can enjoy unparalleled glimpses of the stunning coastline and expansive sea. When passing by various parks and beaches like Yefeng Village and Baicheng Beach, feel free to pull over and take a moment to fully absorb the charm of the island. Take a leisurely stroll along the sandy shores, allowing the soft grains of sand to caress your feet. Immerse yourself in the soothing sea breeze and palm grove, and savor the pleasant seascape that surrounds you. After tour, drive you back to hotel.

Thank you for choosing us for your Xiamen day tour. We are always dedicated to serving you and look forward to welcoming you again for your future trips to China.